Biblical Answer

A Question of Identity and Sovereignty

When we lose our business, our identity can become closely tied to our sense of purpose and self-worth. This is a natural response, but it can also lead to a crisis of identity. In the words of sociologist Robert Bellah, the commodification of identity is the dark underbelly of possessive individualism. This means that our identities are often tied to external factors, such as our job or our possessions, rather than to our relationship with God.

In contrast, a Christian perspective on identity emphasizes that our true identity is rooted in our relationship with God. As the apostle Paul writes, "I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I call you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you" (John 15:15). This means that our identity is not something that we can lose or gain, but rather it is a reflection of our relationship with God. As the psalmist writes, "I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well" (Psalm 139:14).

In the face of loss, it can be tempting to define ourselves by our external circumstances. But a Christian perspective encourages us to look to God for our identity and purpose. As the prophet Jeremiah writes, "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11). This means that even in the midst of loss, we can trust that God is working for our good and that our identity is secure in Him. Ultimately, our identity is not something that can be taken away from us, but rather it is a reflection of our relationship with God, who is sovereign over all things.